Question

What was the exact constitutional status of India on 26^th January, 1950 ?
1. A Democratic Republic
2. A Sovereign Democratic Republic
3. A Sovereign Secular Democratic Republic
4. A Sovereign Socialist Secular Democratic Republic

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 2 : A Sovereign Democratic Republic

The correct answer is The Sovereign Democratic Republic.

• The Constitution of India came into force on 26th January 1950.
• On 26th January 1950, India had the constitutional status of ‘sovereign, Democratic, republic’. Hence, Option 2 is correct.
• It was mentioned in the preamble of the constitution of India.
• By the 42nd Constitutional amendment act, the words ‘Socialist’ and ‘Secular’ were inserted into the preamble.
• A preamble is an introductory statement in a document that explains the document’s philosophy and objectives.
• In a Constitution, it presents the intention of its framers, the history behind its creation, and the core values and principles of the nation.
• The preamble gives the idea of the following things/objects:
  • Source of the Constitution
  • Nature of Indian State
  • Statement of its objectives
  • Date of its adoption

• The ideals behind the Preamble to India’s Constitution were laid down by Jawaharlal Nehru’s Objectives Resolution, adopted by the Constituent Assembly on January 22, 1947.
• Although not enforceable in court, the Preamble states the objectives of the Constitution and acts as an aid during the interpretation of Articles when language is found ambiguous.
• It is indicated by the Preamble that the source of authority of the Constitution lies with the people of India.
• The preamble declares India to be a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic.
• The objectives stated by the Preamble are to secure justice, liberty, equality for all citizens and promote fraternity to maintain the unity and integrity of the nation.
• The date is mentioned in the preamble when it was adopted i.e. November 26, 1949.
• According to the Judgement of the Supreme Court in the Kesavananda Bharati case, the Preamble of the Constitution is the part of the Constitution.